Members of the Durham Cricket professional squad were in attendance as the refurbished athletics track at Silksworth Sports Complex officially reopened.
Run by award-winning operator and Durham Cricket partner Everyone Active alongside Sunderland City Council, the centre unveiled the upgraded track last month, with Leah Dobson, Alex Lees, Luke Robinson and Emily Windsor all attending.
The £230,000 project was funded by Everyone Active, Sunderland City Council and the SUEZ Communities Fund, who contributed £40,000 of the total cost. The work involved installing a brand new track and six-foot perimeter fence.
Silksworth Sports Complex is also home to the North East’s premier ski facility, comprising a main slope and two dedicated nursery slopes, as well as outdoor artificial football pitches.
Durham Cricket Commercial Director, Tom Seymour said: “Everyone Active is a key partner of Durham Cricket, therefore it is fantastic to play our part in supporting the opening of their refurbished athletics track at Silksworth Sports Complex. It was great for members of our men’s and women’s team to be in attendance for the launch, in what is a fantastic facility.”
Ian Bradgate, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said: “It’s fantastic to reopen this state-of-the-art track, which is available for the whole community to enjoy. This will be a brilliant facility for many years to come, allowing local people of all abilities to improve their physical health and mental well-being.”
Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “The refurbished athletics track is a fabulous asset for the whole community. So, whether you’re a dedicated runner or someone just looking to be a bit more physically active, I’d encourage everyone to check it out.”
Silksworth Community Pool, Tennis and Wellness Centre’s facilities include a 120-station gym, a 25m swimming pool which hosts award-winning swim lessons, 18 tennis courts, group exercise studios, a health suite, soft play and café.